Schuylkill River Parks Connector Bridge

Project type

Community Access

Status

Opened October 2012

As a result of an agreement negotiated between the City of Philadelphia and CSX, automated crossing gates were installed at the Locust Street and Race Street at-grade access points to Schuylkill Banks. These gates close when there is train traffic, and reopen once the crossing points are clear.

To improve access when these gates are closed, a pedestrian bridge was built to span the railroad from Schuylkill Banks to Schuylkill River Park. The project included intensive community involvement in the design process. The bridge is a 95’ long truncated arch truss structure with a 12’ wide pathway. There are 10’ wide ADA accessible ramps on the approaches with three overlooks. Architectural lighting and enhancements were included in the contract.

This award-winning project resolves the safety concerns of the City and CSX with respect to providing convenient access to Schuylkill Banks. It also serves as a popular viewing area for the bustling Schuylkill River Park Dog Run and the Schuylkill River. The connector bridge was completed and opened to the public in October 2012.